2009 Audi A3 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A3 1982 Volkswagen Golf
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model A3 Golf
Year Released 2009 1982
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1092 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 79 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.6 mm 69.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1030 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 3710 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 45 L